DR Congo: Growing More Than Food – Strengthening Child Nutrition Through Sustainable Agriculture
In the health zones of Luiza and Luambo in Central Kasai Province, efforts to combat malnutrition are being implemented through an integrated approach focused on the long-term well-being of children. One key lesson emerging from the field is that good nutrition begins at the household level, through improved agricultural practices and sustainable livelihoods.
To address challenges related to access to nutritious food, the Chronic Malnutrition Prevention Project implemented by World Vision, with financial support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) through the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), is promoting sustainable local solutions. The initiative aims to strengthen families’ capacity to produce diverse and nutritious foods while improving their living conditions and resilience.
Market Gardening: A Pathway to Better Child Nutrition
Across several communities, previously underutilised spaces have been transformed into productive gardens. Market gardening has become a vital tool for improving dietary diversity within households.
The crops being promoted, including leafy vegetables, tomatoes and aubergines, are rich in vitamins and minerals essential for children’s growth and development. Their short production cycle also enables frequent harvests, ensuring a continuous supply of nutritious food throughout the year.
As a result of these initiatives, household meals are now more varied and balanced, contributing to improved child growth and health. Surplus produce is sold or exchanged, generating income and strengthening household food security.
“Today, even during the dry season, cabbage is abundant. Previously, a bundle cost between 1,500 Congolese francs (0.6 USD); now it costs 500 francs (0.2USD). Our children are eating better,” says Esther Kaseya, a market gardener at Luiza Central Market.
Rabbit Farming: A Sustainable Source of Protein
As part of its efforts to promote balanced diets, the project is also improving access to animal protein through locally adapted solutions. Rabbit farming has emerged as an affordable, sustainable, and highly nutritious option.
Easy to raise, requiring little space and reproducing quickly, rabbits provide a regular source of protein-rich meat that contributes positively to children’s health and nutrition.
“I started with two rabbits in September 2025. Today, I have more than 25, and I have already sold 36. My children eat at least one rabbit every week, and my young daughter, who used to be ill, is now doing well,” explains Marie, a mother of seven and a project beneficiary.
Beyond improving nutrition, this activity also supports household economic empowerment, helping families meet essential expenses and strengthen their resilience.
Driving Sustainable Change Within Communities
These interventions are contributing to a gradual transformation of agricultural and dietary practices. Households are increasingly adopting sustainable habits centred on local food production, dietary diversification and the effective use of available resources.
At the same time, positive changes are being observed in the distribution of roles within families, with greater participation from all household members in agricultural activities and food-related decision-making.
Through these efforts, World Vision is not only helping to reduce malnutrition but also creating an enabling environment where children can grow, thrive and reach their full potential in the long term.